Gangrene is a serious condition that occurs when tissue dies due to a lack of blood flow or an infection. People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing gangrene, particularly in the feet, toes, and ankles, as a result of poor circulation and a reduced ability to heal wounds. High blood sugar can damage nerves, leading to loss of sensation, which makes it difficult to detect injuries. Small cuts, blisters, or ulcers may go unnoticed, increasing the chance of infection. If an infection worsens, tissue death can occur, and surgery may be required to remove the affected area. Signs of gangrene include skin discoloration, swelling, foul-smelling discharge, and numbness. If left untreated, the infection can spread and lead to severe complications. A podiatrist can help by identifying foot problems early, treating wounds before they worsen, and recommending strategies to improve circulation. Regular foot exams are essential for preventing complications like gangrene. If you have diabetes and suffer from foot ulcers, it is suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist for checkups and appropriate care.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, Riverdale, and Englewood, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, redness, and swelling. This often affects the big toe and may result from improper nail trimming, wearing tight footwear, or toe injuries. People with naturally curved nails are more likely to experience ingrown toenails. If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can worsen, potentially leading to an infection that increases pain and interferes with daily activities. A podiatrist can assess the severity of the ingrown toenail and determine the most effective treatment. In some cases, the podiatrist may trim the ingrown portion of the nail, while more severe cases may require surgery to remove part of the nail and prevent regrowth in that area. Wearing shoes that fit properly and trimming toenails straight across can help reduce the risk of recurrence. If you have developed an ingrown toenail that shows signs of infection, it is suggested that you schedule an immediate appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.
Causes
Bacterial infections
Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
Genetic predisposition
Prevention
Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.
Treatment
Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, Riverdale, and Englewood, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Have your feet inspected by a professional before starting a new sport or physical activity. Taking charge of your foot health will keep you in good physical condition and can help you avoid a potential injury, such as a fracture or sprained ankle.
Gout is a type of arthritis that occurs when uric acid builds up in the body, forming crystals in the joints. It commonly affects the big toe but can also impact other joints. The symptoms include intense, sudden pain, swelling, redness, and heat, often beginning at night. The pain can be so severe that even the weight of a blanket can feel unbearable. Gout is more common in men over 40 and women after menopause due to hormonal changes and higher levels of uric acid in the body. Other risk factors include a diet high in purines found in red meat and seafood, alcohol consumption, obesity, and certain medications. A podiatrist can help diagnose gout by examining your foot and performing tests to detect uric acid crystals. Treatment often involves anti-inflammatory medications, pain relievers, and lifestyle changes, such as diet modifications and weight management. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for proper care and management.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.
People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.
Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, Riverdale, and Englewood, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
